They’ve shut the door on a piece of history.
The well-known green door that couples at City Hall traditionally step through after their nuptials has been replaced by what many are calling “poop brown” boards. This change is not just about aesthetics; it’s overshadowing wedding photos and stripping away a slice of New York culture.
Last week, the city clerk’s office swapped the famous gold doors for brown double doors, one of which is even covered in plywood.
“I don’t want to be rude, but it’s really just a terrible brown color,” photographer Gianna Stern expressed. She mentioned that other photographers are likening it to cardboard.
The prior door was known for its iconic look and tradition—something many brides and grooms sought out for their photos. “So many couples prefer a simple ceremony instead of a lavish celebration, and they cherish that cute, traditional vibe City Hall offers. We always aim to capture that New York essence on their special day,” said Stern, who recently photographed a couple amidst the Knicks ticker-tape parade.
“No matter how they decide to tie the knot, couples crave that quintessential post-wedding photo by the door. It brings a sense of normalcy and tradition, even for simpler ceremonies. Although, you know, it’s a small touch,” she added.
There is a silver lining, though. This unappealing brown facade might only stick around for a few months.
The unsightly door is a temporary fix while the city’s Citywide Services Department ensures the entryway is ADA compliant.
The new design will feature French doors instead of a single hinge like before. An automatic door is also planned for installation at the entrance.
Similar to the last setup, these doors will be crafted from bronze, likely turning a gold color before fading back to the familiar green associated with the Statue of Liberty.
An agency spokesperson noted, “Worth Street’s Gilded Door has been a beloved feature for newlyweds over the years, and it will be more accessible than ever.”
